Old person's hands image

As part of a plan to help elderly and vulnerable people stay independent and healthy, Cornwall Council has announced it will create 3,500 ‘Extra Care’ housing units across the country by 2025.

Looking at the housing development with a mixed approach, the Council seeks to remodel existing buildings as well as develop new ones where the market is “less responsive.”

According to Poppi, the number of people across Cornwall aged 65 and above is predicted to increase by almost 80 percent by 2030. With this ageing population, it is expected there will also be an increase in illness and disability, therefore meaning more people will need care and support services.

The Council added that it is looking to recruit a strategic partner to develop an initial 750 units across towns in Cornwall.

Cornwall Council Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Adults Rob Rotchell said: “These will be self-contained homes with their own front doors where people have access to care and support when they need it.

“People often think about downsizing their homes as they get older so Extra Care is an attractive option when planning for possible care and support needs in the future.

“Evidence shows that helping people to live independently for longer in homes like these, often closer to their family and friends, leads to healthier and happier lives.

“This in turn reduces their need to use health and social care services, alleviating demand on already stretched services.”

At an event hosted by Cornwall Council at St Austell Conference Centre on 9th August 2018, housing companies, care providers and property developers were invited to learn more about Extra Care housing options, the sorts of facilities they are and how they are funded.

The event is the beginning of a conversation to test the proposals before a formal selection process for a strategic partner begins in Autumn.

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